Rachel Ashwell: How to Make Your Home Cozy for Holiday Guests

 

I was so thrilled when Rachel Ashwell, Queen of Shabby Chic and the creator of the awesomely affordable Simply Shabby Chic line at Target, agreed to guest-blog for us today! Her topic? How to make your home extra cozy for overnight guests this holiday. Take it away, Rachel!
 --- Mary Kate Frank, H&G editor

The holiday season is a time for visits from family and friends, which often means making room for overnight guests.  I want my guests to feel welcome with cozy, comfortable accommodations. Preparing your home doesn’t have to be time consuming or costly -- just a few special touches can make your home feel like the perfect bed and breakfast!

Do a Quick Bedroom Makeover 
A spare bedroom feels extra warm and inviting for guests with the addition of just a few key pieces and thoughtful placement. Layer a soft comforter at the end of the bed for extra warmth (I'm partial to this one, from my Simply Shabby Chic line.) Adding new decorative pillows, and mixing and matching shapes, sizes and colors, creates a layered look without spending too much.

I often add hotel-inspired touches such as a lamp on the bedside table and a few classic novels or magazines for reading, a bottle of water and a pretty glass, and of course, fresh flowers. These details will make your guests feel right at home.

Create a Fresh Take on the Bath 
Getting your bathroom guest-ready takes only a few simple steps.  A new crisp white shower curtain and cozy bath rug will give the room a fresh look and an updated feel.  Other items, such as a vintage-inspired soap dispenser and wastebasket add a unique touch for an affordable price.

Be sure that your guests have a set of towels all their own.  Place the towels atop a dresser or on a spare chair in their room and they will feel well taken care of!  I love this sweet ruffle towel set – a great basic with just a touch of flair. A dressing robe and individual toiletries are always an appreciated touch.

Leave Little Surprises
Surprise houseguests with a special treat before they turn in, with a plate of milk and cookies by the bedside.  For the holidays, you can add a bit of seasonal décor like a mini tree in the guest room, adding just enough sparkle to make their stay memorable.

Happy holidays!
 

Chime In
Do you stress over holiday guests?
Chime in now!
    More to Explore
    Glitter Play Dough - iVillage Through four children and twelve years, play-dough is still a favorite around our home. This recipe is infinitely superior to the store-bought stuff, and two things ... MORE
    Rachel Crow Is Voted Off 'The X Factor' - iVillage Canty, by now accustomed to the sing-off, belted out I'm Going Down by Mary J. Blige, who was the night's guestperformer. Rachel performed I'd Rather Go Blind by soul ... MORE
    Turn Your Bedroom into a Cozy Getaway - iVillage If you have a small bedroom, a large mirror hanging over a dresser can also make a room looklarger. 6. Throw a chenille blanket on your bed during the cooler months. MORE
    Make a Cavernous Room Cozy - iVillage Sexual Techniques; Sex Problems; Relationship Problems; Divorce ... Install one or more window seats, which act as cozy nooks in a large space. 9. Fill the room with ... MORE
    Home Decorating Ideas: Give Your Home a Cozy Feel - iVillage Holidays & Travel; Parenting Styles & Tips; Baby Health ... like, cluster your easy chairs around the dining room table. Or pull a small side table near the hearth for cozy ... MORE
    Shabby Chic bedroom decorating ideas from iVillage Home - iVillage I want to redo my bedroom in a shabby-chic style with a relaxed feel. I have spent a ... will go with any of these colors. Get more of our favorite bedroom decorating ideas! MORE
    Advertisement
    Advertisement